Sleep problems from disrupted body clocks and light therapy

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders are associated with misalignment between the body's internal clock and external light-dark cycles.

• There are six recognized circadian rhythm sleep disorders: delayed sleep phase syndrome, advanced sleep phase syndrome, non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome, irregular sleep-wake pattern, shift work sleep syndrome, and time zone change syndrome.
• These disorders can lead to symptoms like excessive sleepiness and insomnia.
• Therapeutic agents, such as light and melatonin, may help in synchronizing the circadian rhythm.

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